What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 26, 2016

Last week’s economic news was abundant with releases on home builder sentiment, housing starts, building permits, sales of previously owned homes. The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve released its customary statement at the conclusion of its meeting; Fed Chair Janet Yellen also gave a press conference. Weekly readings on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were released as usual.

NAHB: Builder Sentiment Increases in September

Home builder confidence in housing market conditions increased in September according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. Builder confidence rose five points to 65; analysts expected a reading of 60 based on August’s reading of 59. NAHB said that September’s reading was boosted by more “serious” buyers entering housing markets.

Components used to determine NAHB HMI readings were also higher. Builder confidence in current market conditions rose six points to 71; builder confidence in housing market conditions over the next six months rose by five points to 71. Builder confidence in buyer traffic in new housing developments rose four points to 48. Buyer traffic readings have not reached 50 since 2005; 50 is a neutral benchmark for NAHB HMI readings.

Home prices continue rising at a higher pace than wages; this is pressuring first-time and moderate income buyers out of the market. An ongoing shortage of available homes is pressing prices higher as demand increases. Analysts pay close attention to the NAHB HMI as building more new homes is a key factor in easing the shortage of homes for sale.

Housing Starts, Building Permits Lower

Commerce Department readings on housing starts and permits issued were lower for August Housing starts were lower in August at 1.142 million starts on a seasonally-adjusted annual pace. Analysts expected 1.182 million housing starts based on July’s reading of 1.212 million starts. Regional readings showed a dip in starts in the South. Severe flooding in Louisiana contributed to the lower reading for housing starts. August’s reading for housing starts was 5.80 percent lower than July’s reading and 0.90 percent lower than for July 2015.

Building permits issued were nearly flat in August; this was likely due to the prime building season winding down 1.139 million permits were issued as compared to 1.144 million permits issued in July. Single-family starts were six percent lower than for July and were 1.20 percent lower year-over-year.

Existing Home Sales Dip: High Demand, Low Supply Cited

Sales of pre-owned homes fell by 0.90 percent in August to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.33 million sales. Analysts expected a reading of 5.48 million sales; July’s reading for sales of pre-owned homes was 5.38 million sales.

Low inventory of available homes continues to impact housing markets as demand for homes increased and prices rose; the national average home price was $240,000 in August. Rising home prices continued to be driven by high demand and low supplies. These conditions also impacted first-time and moderate income home buyers who were pressured to keep up with rapidly rising home prices.

While mortgage rates remain relatively low, higher home prices and tight mortgage credit requirements remain obstacles for first-time buyers.

Mortgage Rates, Weekly Jobless Claims Lower

Freddie Mac reported lower mortgage rates last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell by two basis points to 3.48 percent; the average rate for a15-year fixed rate mortgage fell on one basis point to 2.76 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was lower by two basis points at 2.80 percent.

Analysts expected new jobless claims to remain flat at the prior week’s reading of 260,000 new claims, but 252,000 new claims were filed for the lowest reading since July. The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 22250 claims to 258,500. The four-week reading is considered a less volatile reading than week-to-week readings.

Federal Reserve: No Increase in Fed Rate

The Federal Open Market Committee said in its post-meeting statement that the target federal funds rate would not be raised. In a press conference given after the FOMC statement, Fed Chair Janet Yellen said that although the economy continued to improve, the Fed had concerns over the labor market and decided not to raise rates. Any increase in Federal Reserve rates triggers increases in consumer lending rates.

What’s Ahead

This week’s readings include Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, readings on new and pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

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4106 W Eli Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$590,005

5 Beds

4 Baths

2,762 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748793

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The Pacific plan offers space for the entire family. This home features 4 bedrooms upstairs with a guest bedroom downstairs. A perfect retreat for long-term guests. The spacious kitchen offers ample counter space and opens to the great room for ideal entertaining. Custom interior finishes include: matte granite countertops, shaker cabinets, custom kitchen backsplash, and natural wood-look tile flooring in all the right places.

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35713 N 32nd Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85086

$590,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,061 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741668

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home! This Stunning Split Floor plan 4 bedroom, 2 bath home is located in the highly sought-after community of Tramonto and features an eat in kitchen with granite countertops, beautiful Maple cabinets with plenty of storage, wine rack built in, upgraded backsplash and Stainless appliances with New Dishwasher, fixtures and hardware throughout. Primary Suite has a large remodel spa like ensuite with new tile, new double sinks, free standing tub & walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. New interior and exterior paint. New luxury vinyl plank flooring, tall baseboards, new light fixtures, fans and LED recessed ceiling lights and new outlets/switches. Second bath is fully remodeled with a new tub, tile, vanity, mirror and much more. Park all your toys in the third garage or wander outside and discover new landscaping, pavers and a covered patio perfect for al fresco dining. Enjoy the community's amenities including walking paths, a children's playground, and a sparkling pool and spa. With its superb location close to schools and every modern convenience, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and convenience for your discerning lifestyle. Prime location near I-17 & Loop 303 freeways, making commuting a breeze. Ideal for those connected to the nearby TSMC plant or seeking proximity to Lake Pleasant. Corner lot with North/ South exposure. This is a must see!!! Refrigerator, Washer and Dryer stay.

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1047 W Elna Rae Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$590,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769188

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NO HOA!! Remodeled 5 bd/3 bath located in the heart of Tempe features open and bright layout with new flooring throughout, new granite countertops, new light fixtures, and new paint. Located near ASU, Tempe Beach Park, the Phoenix Zoo, Arizona Botanical Gardens, Sky Harbor International Airport - and easy to get to!

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1365 W Laguna Azul Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$590,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,074 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765770

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Have you been looking for your forever home in Dobson Ranch with over a 10,000 sq ft lot? If so look no more, this home is completely remodeled from top to bottom. Recent upgrades include renovated bathrooms, dual pane windows, massive security gate, electrical service panels in the garage, newly installed Ho2 system, sliders, drop ceiling removed to give you actual space in the living areas, new kitchen with custom cabinets, stainless appliances and high grade quartz counters. The master is oversized with own access to courtyard. Come check out all this home has to offer. This home is located in the prestigious Dobson Ranch Subdivision with community pool, many activities, close to freeway access, shops, restaurants and so much more.

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9112 S 15th Way Phoenix, AZ 85042

$590,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,214 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780934

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

What a RARE find! Located in the gated Montana Vista Estates, this beautiful 3-bedroom home will leave you in awe. Its charm starts with a manicured landscape & a 3-car garage w/paver driveway. Fabulous interior features abundant natural light, archways, neutral paint, and stone tile flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. You'll LOVE the separate living room & a formal dining room w/wood-look floors! The gourmet kitchen boasts granite counters, recessed lighting, a pantry, wood cabinetry, a large island, a breakfast bar, and SS appliances w/cooktop gas. Main bedroom has an ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. The spacious back & side yards offer a fireplace and two covered patios. This gem also sits on a corner lot by the Community gate, with mountain views! Just WOW!

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17899 W Mountain Sky Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$590,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,139 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786759

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 2023 NEW BUILD, Barely lived in 2,138 sqft, 3 Bed/2 Bath Maestro in the gated Cantamia community includes a spacious TRUE huge 3-car extended-epoxied garage, coveted North/South exposure, and a home office which crescendo into a stylish living space. Upgraded kitchen with quartz countertops, cabinetry, and top of the line GE Café appliances accent this stylish retreat. The luxurious primary ensuite includes dual vanities, ample sized walk in shower, and a custom walk-in closet. The orchestrated chicness continues as you step from your open-concept modern home through the 12' upgraded slider to a backyard professionally curated with artificial turf and paver patios to enjoy the outdoors. This barely lived in beauty is waiting for you .Come See it TODAY!

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1258 W Plane Tree Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

New

$590,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,881 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787613

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss this 5 bedroom/3 bath home located in the sought after community of Ironwood Crossing. This home features a desirable open concept floor plan with tons of natural light and OWNED SOLAR PANELS!!!. The gourmet kitchen has an oversized island with seating, granite countertops, beautiful upgraded cabinetry, gas cooktop, and a walk in pantry. Large primary bedroom boasts a huge walk in closet, dual sinks and a separate tub and shower. All secondary bedrooms are spacious and have a walk-in closet. Guest bedroom has it's own wing with a bath that has a walk in shower. This home also has a separate den/office and a generous backyard with a covered patio. Community offers pools/spas, clubhouse, pickleball courts, splash pads, playgrounds, basketball & volleyball courts!

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7243 E Nopal Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$590,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,352 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775119

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New roof with a 20 yr warranty on this 4 bed / 3 bath with den spacious home. Vaulted ceilings in front room, new flooring in the den and all upstairs. The Kitchen has an eat-in area, a breakfast bar with a new kitchen sink, new faucet, new disposal, new plumbing, new appliances with a gas range, new ceiling LED kitchen lights and the cabinets have new sliders. Laundry room has new built-ins for extra storage. New windows with transferable warranty in the master suite & master bathroom. The other three spacious bedrooms have new closet built-ins. Fully remodeled bathrooms & new tile floors. The pool has been resurfaced, new pump filter, new back patio cover, and misters. New court yard & front landscape are completely remodeled with new turf, plants, pavers a new side gate and RV gate!

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1144 Christopher Creek Loop Payson, AZ 85541

$590,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,392 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742443

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beat summer heat with a mountain retreat, or perhaps have a white Christmas! TWO HOMES on over TWO ACRES of tall pines (303-10-107A and 107B) & national forest on 2 sides! Versatile property, & a rare opportunity for a four-season get-away or as a rental property. Classic mountain cabin + guest cottage are located right on the loop in Christopher Creek, less than 2 mi on the adjacent forest road up to the spring-fed headwaters! It's a gorgeous area for hiking, picnicking, & fishing (seasonal bi-weekly stocking w/trout,etc). Unique main home has a master bedroom with an amazing view from the balcony, as well as an add'l loft area. Open style floorplan, with oak floors & large windows on three sides for plenty of natural light; there's a woodstove to cozy up to on cool evenings. CLICK: Custom bath features stone and glass brick walls & loads of storage; separate laundry room. Kitchen has an island with granite countertops, & the large decks (over 700 s.f.) in front & back offer the perfect setting for relaxation, entertaining, and watching the wildlife that meander through. Darling studio-style cottage provides additional space for overflow, guests, or tenants, complete with its own kitchenette and a bath with shower. This property is on a shared well, with this listing owning two of the three shares; further, the neighbor who owns a third share has drilled his own and has never hooked into this well. It's a rare opportunity to enjoy a secluded but conveniently located piece of paradise, right in the middle of the most beautiful forest in Arizona, with unparalleled opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, stargazing, and more. Treat yourself to a beautiful drive, and come check it out! Seller and listing agents are related.

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504 N 297th Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$590,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,850 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746288

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New Build Dream Home! Completion date early December 2024. Large 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-car garage on a 1-acre corner lot. Open Floor plan with large great room and eat in kitchen. Custom shaker cabinets with soft close drawer and doors. Spacious master suite with double sinks, quartz counter tops, walk in closet, private entrance to the covered patio.

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16048 W Mercer Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$590,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,451 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out the Great Curb Appeal at this Nice 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3451 sq. ft., 3 car garage home in Greer Ranch South, Surprise, AZ. New carpeting and interior paint. Low maintenance front yard leads you to the front door. Vaulted ceilings and large rooms greet your entry to this home along with a spacious open eat-in kitchen granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and ample cabinet space. Looking for a formal dining space? Found! Relax and hide in the Great Room downstairs or the spacious upstairs Media Room. Large Primary Suite with a large walk in closet, private bath with separate shower and tub. The backyard includes a covered patio and a pool to keep you cool. This could be your next ''New To You'' home.

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19233 W Coolidge Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$590,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,649 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715943

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Welcome to Your New Home!** This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of luxury and functionality, featuring a full apartment casita with its own private entrance, ideal for guests, extended family or rental income. Highlights include: - **Spacious Main House:** Open floor plan with a bright and airy living space, modern kitchen, and elegant finishes throughout. - **Private Apartment Casita:** Self-contained unit with a living area, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, perfect for extended family or rental potential. - **3-Car Garage:** Ample space for vehicles, storage, and hobbies. - **Completed Backyard:** Beautifully landscaped for relaxation and entertainment. - **Installed Solar Panels:** Enjoy significant savings on your energy bills and contribute to a greener planet. Located close to top-rated schools, shopping, and recreational facilities, this home offers convenience and comfort in one package. Don't miss out on this rare find! Contact us today to schedule a viewing and make this exceptional property yours.

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